Lexical Summary hedraióma: Foundation, Support, Pillar Original Word: ἑδραίωμα Strong's Exhaustive Concordance support, basisFrom a derivative of hedraios; a support, i.e. (figuratively) basis -- ground. see GREEK hedraios HELPS Word-studies Cognate: 1477 hedraíōma – the base, which ultimately supports the foundation itself (used only in 1 Tim 3:15). See also 1476 (hedraíos). NAS Exhaustive Concordance Word Originfrom hedraios Definition a support, fig. a basis NASB Translation support (1). Thayer's Greek Lexicon STRONGS NT 1477: ἑδραίωμαἑδραίωμα, ἑδραιωματος, τό (ἑδραιόω, to make stable, settle firmly), a stay, prop, support, (Vulg.firmamentum): 1 Timothy 3:15 (A. V. ground). (Ecclesiastical writings.) Topical Lexicon Biblical Context In 1 Timothy 3:15 Paul writes, “the church of the living God, the pillar and foundation of the truth”. The single occurrence of ἑδραίωμα draws its whole New Testament significance from this verse, where it stands in parallel with “pillar” and highlights the Church’s God-ordained role within the created order and redemptive history. Old Testament Background Scripture often couples “pillar” with “foundation” to signal stability and permanence (Psalm 75:3; Proverbs 9:1). The tabernacle’s pillars (Exodus 26:32) and Solomon’s temple columns Jachin and Boaz (1 Kings 7:21) portrayed visible strength undergirding God’s dwelling place. Such images prepare the way for Paul’s description of the Church as the sphere in which the living God now manifests His presence. New Testament Theology 1. Christ remains the ultimate foundation (1 Corinthians 3:11). By calling the gathered body a “pillar and foundation,” Paul does not replace Christ but emphasizes the Church’s derivative yet essential function: holding the apostolic gospel steady in the world. The Church as Guardian of Revealed Truth The imagery suggests both support and display. A foundation bears weight; a pillar lifts something into view. Likewise the Church simultaneously protects doctrine from collapse (Galatians 1:8–9) and elevates it before nations (Matthew 28:19). Without this dual ministry, truth would lie hidden or be crushed by error. Structural Imagery: Pillar and Foundation • Support: stability against storms of false teaching (Ephesians 4:14). Historical Reception Early fathers appealed to 1 Timothy 3:15 when combating heresy. Irenaeus argued that apostolic succession keeps the Church anchored to original truth, while Athanasius cited the verse against Arian innovations. The Reformers, without denying the verse, clarified that the Church’s authority is ministerial, not magisterial—derived from and limited by Scripture itself. Implications for Church Polity Paul situates the phrase within instructions for overseers and deacons (1 Timothy 3:1–13). Sound leadership safeguards truth; therefore doctrinal fidelity and moral integrity are indispensable qualifications. Congregations that neglect biblical eldership or discipline erode the very foundation they are called to be. Apologetic and Missionary Significance A Church faithful to Scripture becomes both fortress and lighthouse: fortress, resisting relativism and error (2 Corinthians 10:5); lighthouse, guiding the lost to Christ (Acts 13:47). Missions flourish where local assemblies guard the gospel from syncretism and proclaim it without compromise. Personal and Corporate Application Believers contribute to the Church’s stabilizing role by: Select Cross References Matthew 16:18; Acts 20:28–32; 1 Corinthians 3:10–15; 2 Corinthians 13:8; Ephesians 2:19–22; Colossians 1:23; 2 Timothy 2:19; Hebrews 3:6; Revelation 3:12. Forms and Transliterations εδραιωμα εδραίωμα ἑδραίωμα edraioma edraiōma hedraioma hedraiōma hedraíoma hedraíōmaLinks Interlinear Greek • Interlinear Hebrew • Strong's Numbers • Englishman's Greek Concordance • Englishman's Hebrew Concordance • Parallel Texts |
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